Sharm beaches given all-clear for divers

The Egyptian resort of Sharm el Sheikh is returning to normal, as authorities allow the resumption of all watersport activities.

Beaches had been closed to all swimmers, snorkellers and windsurfers following a spate of serious shark attacks.

Several Russians and a Ukrainian were maimed by sharks, thought to be of either Oceanic White Tip or Mako variety.

And less than a week after the first incident, a 70-year old German tourist bled to death after being bitten near Middle Garden Reef, Na’ama Bay.

However, Egypt’s Chamber of Diving and Watersports (CDWS) has now released a statement, saying the threat of shark attacks has receded.

It commented: “CDWS can this evening announce that following a series of exploratory dives, conducted today by CDWS members and their staff, it has reported to the Ministry of Tourism that the area appears very calm and very clear.”

The CDWS, the body that oversees waterborne activity in the region, said it had recommended that the restrictions be lifted from the affected area.

Consequently, the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism gave permission for all dive sites and beaches in Sharm el Sheikh to be re-opened.

However, the CDWS stopped short of allowing snorkelling to restart.

Although for the tourists in the Sinai peninsula for diving this winter, the good news is that watersport activities should resume as normal.